Shows
SmarticleSmarticle - Chris Marchand and The Wall of Silence - Part 2In this episode, the hosts continue their conversation with Chris Marchand, the creator of the Wall of Silence podcast that highlights stories of abuse within the Anglican Church of North America (ACNA). The episode begins with powerful words from Kelly Goewey, criticizing the church's handling of abuse allegations. The discussion explores the complexities and failures of institutional processes, the psychological impact on victims and whistleblowers, and the broader cultural issues within the church. Chris shares his personal struggles, the backlash he has faced, and his ongoing commitment to advocating for abuse survivors. This candid conversation aims to spark critical reflection...2025-06-2423 minSmarticleSmarticle - Unveiling the Wall of Silence: Chris Marchand on Addressing Church Abuse - Part 1In this episode, hosts Larry and Brandon interview Chris Marchand, an Anglican priest and podcaster, to discuss his podcast 'Wall of Silence,' which tackles sexual abuse within the ACNA (Anglican Church of North America). The conversation delves into the origins and purpose of the podcast, abuse in church settings, and the challenges faced by victims and advocates when addressing such issues. The episode also touches on the broader cultural implications and the resistance often encountered when trying to bring these dark truths to light.
00:00 Introduction to Chris Marchand
00:43 The Wall of Silence Podcast
01:03 Five Seconds of Silence
01:40 Background on the ACNA...2025-06-2416 minSmarticleSmarticle - Smarticle Scams - Protecting Older Adults from Financial Scams: Insights from Brian WatsonIn this episode, Brandon hosts Brian Watson, a retired IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent with 28 years of experience in federal law enforcement. Brian shares his background and current role with the nonprofit ROSE (Resources Outreach to Safeguard the Elderly), where he focuses on fraud prevention for older adults. They discuss the evolving nature of scams, how seniors are targeted due to their accumulated wealth, and provide practical advice on recognizing and preventing scams. Real-life examples of scams and the emotional and financial toll on victims underscore the importance of vigilance and proactive measures. The episode highlights the importance of community...2025-03-1932 minSmarticleSmarticle - Smarticle Scams - Combating Financial Sextortion: An In-depth Discussion with Paul RaffileIn this episode of the Smarticle Scams podcast, Brandon welcomes Intel analyst Paul Raffile to discuss his extensive work in fighting financial sextortion. Raffile shares his background in tracking online threats and details how financial sextortion scams have evolved to predominantly target males aged 14-17 years old. He explains the methods these criminals use to coerce victims and the psychological impacts on young people, including devastating cases leading to suicides. Raphael also examines the roles of social media platforms and payment services, like Cash App, in perpetuating these scams and their responsibility in combating them. He highlights the importance...2025-03-1229 minSmarticleSmarticle - Smarticle Scams - Pig Butchering Part Two - The ButcheredIn this episode of the Smarticle Podcast we delve into the alarming 'Pig Butchering' scam, a sophisticated fraud scheme originating in China and spreading across Southeast Asia. Brandon discusses previous incidents, including a significant case involving Shan Hanes, the CEO of a small Kansas bank who was implicated in this scam and embezzled $47 million. The episode features interviews with two victims of the scam, Troy Gauchenour and PJ Jenkins. Troy shares his journey of being deceived through a crypto mining scheme, while PJ, a retired law enforcement officer from New Jersey, details how he got entangled in a similar scam...2025-03-051h 08SmarticleSmarticle - Smarticle Scams - The Ultimate Scam: Pig Butchering - A Conversation With Erin WestIn this episode of the Smarticle podcast, Brandon introduces Erin West, a former Deputy District Attorney and founder of Operation Shamrock, to delve into the alarming rise of 'pig butchering' scams. Erin explains how these scams trick victims, often through elaborate schemes involving romantic or investment opportunities, leading to devastating financial losses. She discusses the difficulties victims face in reporting these crimes and highlights the gaps in law enforcement and financial institutions' responses. Erin shares her efforts to educate and equip law enforcement through the Crypto Coalition and emphasizes the need for greater awareness and kindness towards scam victims...2025-02-2646 minSmarticleSmarticle - Smarticle Scams - Unmasking Gig Work Scams: A Conversation with Justin Caffier
In the first episode of this new series from the Smarticle Podcast, the focus is on the prevalence and mechanisms of scams on freelance sites, particularly Upwork. Brandon interviews writer Justin Caffier, who shares his personal experience of falling victim to an Upwork scam. They discuss the tactics used by scammers, platform vulnerabilities, and the broader implications of these scams on the gig economy. Caffier's journey, described in his Mashable article, deeply explores the pitfalls and systemic issues within freelance platforms. The episode concludes with a discussion on the responsibility of companies like Upwork to protect their users and the...2025-02-1932 minSmarticleSmarticle - The Smarticle Scams TrailerIn this gripping series, the Smarticle Podcast reveals the massive, yet underreported, threat of online scams that are costing American households billions of dollars a year. From phishing emails to fake websites, these digital deceptions are undermining societal trust and destabilizing American life. Join Brandon, Larry, and the Smarticle Media team as they discuss the growing menace of digital fraud with industry experts and scam victims in order to learn effective strategies to protect yourself from becoming the next target. Additionally, meet Andrew, an AI voice, as a chilling example of how advanced and deceptive these scams have become. Prepare...2025-02-1603 minSmarticleSmarticle - AGTF - The Hiatus Announcement: Reflecting on Smarticle's Journey - The Final Show...For NowToday on the Smarticle, Brandon and Larry announce their upcoming hiatus and reflect on the three-year journey of the podcast. We discuss the evolution of the show, which aims to provide a concise alternative to long podcasts, and our future ambitions. The conversation shifts to a discussion on politics, faith, and the importance of listening and understanding diverse perspectives rooted in love and compassion. The episode concludes with expressions of gratitude to our loyal listeners and a hopeful note on returning in a new format.
00:00 Introduction and Announcement
01:02 Reflecting on the Journey
01:44 Hiatus and Future Plans
02:11 God Talk Friday
2:17 Politics and Relig...2024-11-0116 minSmarticleSmarticle - Hurricane Helene and Smarticle: Fear Ain't No JokeToday we talk about the emotional and physical challenges faced during the storm, including concerns for family safety, power outages, and acts of kindness from the community. Brandon shares the overwhelming emotions experienced, akin to grief, and reflects on fear, comparing it to the experiences of soldiers coming back from war. Despite the difficulties, it highlights the dedication of first responders and community support. Brandon plans to return to the impacted area to help, while Larry talks about living comfortably in California.
00:00 Introduction and Audio Disclaimer
00:43 Experiencing the Hurricane
01:58 Emotional Impact and Family Stories
03:24 Reflections on Fear and Surviva...2024-10-0913 minSmarticleSmarticle - The Myth of JD Vance: A Conversation With Bobi ConnToday on the Smarticle Podcast we welcome back Bobby Conn, author of 'In the Shadow of the Valley,' marking her as the show's first-ever two-time guest. We delve into her Time Magazine article critiquing JD Vance's memoir 'Hillbilly Elegy' and its portrayal of Appalachia. The discussion covers the importance of acknowledging the social structures that enable upward mobility in America, and what Vance could potentially do to help America's working poor if elected to a high office. The conversation emphasizes the significance of public schools, stability in the home, and social support systems in overcoming poverty and addiction.
00:00 Introduction an...2024-09-0423 minSmarticleSmarticle - Larry is Back. Bigger, Stronger, and Faster Than He Was Before!Today on the Smarticle Podcast we share Larry's experiences of starting new jobs and dealing with technology challenges. Larry, a seasoned Silicon Valley professional, recounts trying to adapt to modern tech after decades in radio. We discuss the impacts of relying solely on a phone for a week, family dynamics, and adjusting to new career demands. Larry also shares personal anecdotes about managing a busy household, golf escapades, and the surprising effects of trying a nicotine patch. A candid conversation laced with humor and insights on adapting to change.
00:00 Starting Fresh: New Beginnings and Challenges
01:13 Larry's Tech Struggles: A Week Wit...2024-09-0313 minSmarticleSmarticle - A Crisis on the Job Site Part Two - Justin AzbillToday we talk to Justin Azbill, a trustee of the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention. We discuss with him the alarming rates of suicide and substance abuse among construction workers. Justin shares his personal journey and the mental health challenges faced by workers in the construction industry, emphasizing the importance of breaking the stigma, seeking proactive measures, and establishing peer support groups. He also provides resources and practical advice for those struggling, highlighting the critical need for industry-wide awareness and action.
00:00 The Alarming Suicide Rates in Construction
03:11 Justin Asbill's Background and Experience
05:15 The Mental Health Crisis in Construction
07:11 Justin's Perso...2024-07-3117 minSmarticleSmarticle - Larry's Last Day In RadioIn this special episode of the Smarticle Podcast, the team celebrates Larry's last day in radio after a remarkable 20-year career. Friends, family, and colleagues come together to share heartfelt stories, laugh over fond memories, and roast Larry with love. From humorous tales about radio mishaps to touching tributes, this episode captures the essence of Larry’s impact on those around him. Tune in for a mixture of laughs, nostalgia, and a bit of trivia as Larry embarks on a new chapter in his life.
00:00 Introduction and Special Announcement
00:40 Larry's Last Day Reflections
01:06 Surprise Office Visit
02:02 Farewell Messages and Memories
04:01 Larry's...2024-07-2615 minSmarticleSmarticle - Bobi Conn - Appalachian Life and Legacy: An Interview with Bobi ConnToday we are very honored to have on the Smarticle Podcast, author and cultural advocate, Bobi Conn. Bobi shares her experiences growing up in rural Appalachia. Raised in a holler in Moorhead, Kentucky, Conn discusses the cultural and economic challenges faced by the region. She also shares personal anecdotes, including overcoming childhood poverty and abuse, and highlights the journey that led to her memoir, 'In the Shadow of the Valley.' Conn delves into the importance of nature, reading, and education in her path to success, offering inspirational insights into life in Appalachia.
00:00 Introduction to Bobi Conn
01:24 Defining Ap...2024-07-1119 min